The Letter

A containment vessel inspired by historic lachrymose vessels that contained tears. This is one of a trio of containment vessels inspired by the three Bronte sisters. Each has symbolic implements for capturing, directing, examining, unlocking, writing, remembering, retrieving tears or creative thought. The vessels represent Endurance, Awareness and Devotion. This one represents Awareness.

Lachrymose vessels were used in antiquity for capturing tears...as tokens of love, happiness, creativity or memory. The Letter is inspired by the writings of Anne Bronte. It captures the chimerical meaning of tears. Hidden inside a vessel is written a line from The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte.

But smiles and tears are so alike with me, they are neither of them confined to any particular feelings: I often cry when I am happy, and smile when I am sad.

A chain holds a tiny steel box once used to hold watch parts. This vessel connects us with the passing of time. Inside, a thin piece of glass, from a Victorian lantern slide, protects Anne’s words. A small, silver spoon is attached to capture or bury each tiny drop. Another implement attached to the chain is a tiny sterling magnifying glass - the symbol of awareness. This will be used to carefully examine the reason and contents of each drop. The chain is made from two: strong steel and and an exquisite antique sterling watch chain.

Anne Bronte’s clear examination of the human spirit is increasingly makes her one of the great female writers. She speaks for oppressed, introverted or discouraged women. She creates characters of free thought, intellect and strong moral character...who through adversity discovered strength, independence and great happiness.